Parkside
4.62130 reviewsFOREST ROAD 2421A, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$20 - $100/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
50 campsites
Season
Open May 23 to Septe...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20 - $100/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
50 campsites
Season
Open May 23 to Septe...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsParkside
$20.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard single-family sites are $20 per night, group sites range from $80 to $100 depending on group size. Additional vehicles incur a $10 fee per...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$120.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider928-537-8888gccampgrounds13@gmail.com
What Campers Say
4.62
Top-Rated
Based on 130 reviews
53 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspaciouslocationhiking
Some mention
noisesmallreservation
"Parkside Campground is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. Common praises include the clean vault toilets, helpful camp hosts, and the tranquil creek-side setting."
Fees & Passes at Parkside
$20 - $100/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum 16 nights allowed.
Cancellation: $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night’s fee. No refun...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation Resource Mgmt. of America website.
Best Time to Camp at Parkside
Mountain mornings greet you with crisp, invigorating air even in summer, making that first cup of coffee by the campfire especially rewarding. July and August bring perfect hiking weather with warm afternoons ideal for creek-side relaxation. Early and late season adventurers should pack warm layers, as May and September can surprise with snowflakes and frost-kissed mornings. The campground hibernates through winter, reopening when spring wildflowers begin their colorful display.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 to September 11.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23 to September 11 annually for reservations. First-come, first-served season from September 12 to September 30.
- Current Alerts: Due to flooding in June 2022, some sites and facilities may be under repair.
About Parkside
Nestled along the rushing waters of Rock Creek, Parkside Campground serves as your gateway to the majestic Beartooth Mountains. Here, crystal-clear mountain streams invite anglers to cast their lines while hikers and bikers explore endless trails through pristine wilderness. With Yellowstone National Park just a scenic drive away, this campground perfectly positions you between two of the West's most spectacular natural wonders.
Parkside Campground accommodates a range of camping types, including individual sites, group sites, and accessible sites for tents and RVs.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Parkside follows the legendary Beartooth Highway, a road so breathtaking that Charles Kuralt called it 'the most beautiful drive in America.' Just down the mountain, the charming town of Red Lodge keeps Western traditions alive with its thrilling Home of Champions Rodeo, where world-class cowboys compete against a backdrop of towering peaks. The town's Festival of Nations celebrates the diverse heritage of the miners and pioneers who first settled these rugged mountains.
Weather and SeasonsMountain mornings greet you with crisp, invigorating air even in summer, making that first cup of coffee by the campfire especially rewarding. July and August bring perfect hiking weather with warm afternoons ideal for creek-side relaxation. Early and late season adventurers should pack warm layers, as May and September can surprise with snowflakes and frost-kissed mornings. The campground hibernates through winter, reopening when spring wildflowers begin their colorful display.
ElevationPerched at the perfect sweet spot where mountain meets valley, Parkside Campground offers the best of both worlds—easy access without the altitude challenges of higher elevations, yet close enough to the Beartooth peaks to feel their commanding presence and enjoy cooler temperatures than the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines and shimmering aspens create a natural cathedral around your campsite, their leaves whispering ancient mountain secrets in the breeze. Rock Creek tumbles past with its endless mountain melody, while nearby Greenough Lake mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks in its pristine waters. This is prime wildlife country—keep your camera ready for magnificent elk grazing in meadows, deer tiptoeing through camp at dawn, and yes, even the occasional grizzly bear reminding you that this is still wonderfully wild country.
Geological RegionThe mighty Beartooth Mountains rise dramatically around Parkside, their ancient granite peaks telling a billion-year story of geological drama. This remarkable ecosystem seamlessly blends dense pine forests with groves of quaking aspens that turn brilliant gold each fall. Rock Creek has carved its path through these mountains for millennia, creating the perfect habitat for diverse wildlife. From majestic grizzly bears and bugling elk to graceful mule deer, the Beartooths remain one of the last intact ecosystems in the lower 48, offering campers a true wilderness experience.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets, parking, trails, and three ADA-compliant campsites.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary significantly, with some large enough to accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, while others are smaller and better suited to tents.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varying degrees of privacy. Many sites are noted for being spacious and well-separated, though some reviewers mentioned intrusions by other campers walking through their sites.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCreekside campsites in the upper loop offer the best views and proximity to Rock Creek.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 16 nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Number of guests depends on site capacity
- up to 50 guests allowed for group sites.
Groups
Two group sites are available: Parkside A accommodates up to 50 people, and Parkside B accommodates up to 25 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into upper and lower loops, with creekside sites available in upper loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to September 11 annually for reservations. First-come, first-served season from September 12 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from September 12 to September 30. Not available for reservations.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night’s fee. No refunds for same-day cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Parkside Campground offers a plethora of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and mountain biking. The nearby Beartooth Wilderness and Greenough Lake provide additional outdoor experiences.
Hiking
Hiking options are abundant, with the Hellroaring and Lake Fork Trailheads offering access to the Beartooth Wilderness. The Parkside National Recreation Trail nearby is popular for both hiking and mountain biking.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity, especially for rainbow trout in the Main Fork of Rock Creek and Greenough Lake. One user remarked, "Great fishing at Rock Creek above Red Lodge. The fish are always willing, if a little small."Biking
Mountain biking is popular on the Parkside National Recreation Trail, which is accessible from the campground.Boating
Greenough Lake, less than a mile away, permits canoeing and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
The area's wildlife includes grizzly bears, deer, and elk. User reviews highlight sightings of a black bear within the campground, emphasizing the importance of bear-proof food storage.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the campground's proximity to alpine trails suggests potential for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are supported at nearby Greenough Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased from the host.
- Quiet hours are Noise must be kept to a minimum after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of wildlife such as grizzly bears requires strict food storage policies. Seasonal flooding may occur, impacting certain sites.
Active alertsDue to flooding in June 2022, some sites and facilities may be under repair.
Weather at Parkside
22
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Red Lodge Regional Hospital (12 miles away), local police in Red Lodge, and ranger stations nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 11.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is managed at Greenough Lake Campground a mile away. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Rock Creek and near Greenough Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsLimited potable water availability, small site sizes, and challenging reservation policies. Occasional noise from road traffic.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness and maintenance of facilities. Firewood is available for purchase at $5 per bundle.
Campground Map
FOREST ROAD 2421A, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 212, turn off at Rock Creek Road (Forest Road 2421). Go 0.3 miles to the campground entrance on the right.
Accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures may occur based on weather; check with the campground for details.Nearby places
Yellowstone Northeast Entrance (55 miles, approx. 2 hours drive via Beartooth Highway), Red Lodge (12 miles, approx. 20 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies are available in Red Lodge, approximately 12 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
130 reviews
Parkside is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Parkside Campground is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. Common praises include the clean vault toilets, helpful camp hosts, and the tranquil creek-side setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 130 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious sites, well-maintained vault toilets, scenic creek-side locations, friendly and attentive camp hosts, and proximity to hiking and fishing opportunities.
Based on 130 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted issues with the reservation system, occasional trash visibility, and flooding-related infrastructure damage. A few reviews mentioned minor inconveniences like uneven picnic tables or...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all essentials as the nearest camp store is not within the campground. Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites, and adhere to bear-proof food storage rules. Check weather forecasts for...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with many reviews praising the campground's accessibility and natural beauty during this time. Late spring and early fall are quieter but may include snow or rain....
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great camp site. Views galore and great facilities." - Thomas Armstrong
"The vault toilets were clean and well-stocked." - Sherry Jennings
"The host keeps the pit toilets immaculate, following COVID...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campground sites near the creek are particularly popular, with users highlighting sites 7, 8, and 13 as exceptional. Site 15 received mixed reviews due to its location at the loop entrance.
Based on 130 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes three ADA-compliant campsites and accessible vault toilets. Reviews from users with mobility concerns were positive, citing the ease of access.
Based on 130 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews regarding pet-related experiences were found.
Based on 130 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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